OUR HISTORY
We've been doing this a long time!
America's Favorite Boat Ride™ Since 1945
At Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, we’ve spent nearly 80 years perfecting the New York City boat tour. Since our founding in 1945, more than 80 million passengers have cruised with us, making Circle Line one of the most recognized and beloved sightseeing experiences in the world.
We are the only company in New York Harbor exclusively focused on sightseeing. Our steel vessels are built for all seasons, featuring oversized windows for unobstructed views in any weather. Operating from Pier 83 in Hell's Kitchen and Pier 16 in the historic South Street Seaport, we’re proud to be New York City’s first and most iconic sightseeing fleet.
Historic image of Circle Line vessel and box office
EARLY BEGINNINGS
The Roots of Sightseeing Cruises
1890's
Boat rides begin along New York City’s waterfront, offering early glimpses of the skyline and harbor activity.
1905
The Harlem Ship Canal is completed, allowing full circumnavigation of Manhattan Island and opening the door to more complete sightseeing experiences.
1908
Captain John Roberts leads the steamer Tourist on the first regular sightseeing cruise around Manhattan. This historic ride becomes the foundation for decades of city cruising to come.
Coney Island in the 1890s
FOUNDING AND GROWTH
Establishing a New York Icon
June 14, 1945
Frank Barry, Joe Moran, and their partners unify several competing boat operators to form the Circle Line Company. The first official cruise departs from Battery Park and quickly becomes a must-do experience for locals and tourists alike.
November 1950
Larger, more powerful vessels are added to the fleet, enabling completion of the full 35-mile Manhattan cruise in under three hours.
December 1955
Circle Line moves to Pier 83 on the Hudson River, a move that cements its place in the city’s growing tourism landscape.
Passengers prepared to board a Circle Line sightseeing boat in the 1950s.
EXPANSION AND INNOVATION
Enhancing the Experience
1954
Circle Line-Statue of Liberty Ferry, Inc. is contracted by the U.S. Department of the Interior to provide exclusive ferry service to Liberty and Ellis Islands.
1960's
With growing demand, the fleet expands and new routes are introduced, making Circle Line synonymous with sightseeing in New York.
December 1965
The company reaches 10 million passengers and begins a major expansion of Pier 83. A $3 million renovation adds a second deck, parking, offices, and updated loading areas.
Frank Barry, president of Circle Line, receives the Waterfront Man of the Year award (1961)
THE SPLIT AND DIVERSIFICATION
A New Era Begins
1981
Circle Line splits into two entities: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises and Circle Line Downtown, each focusing on different parts of the harbor.
1982
Circle Line-Statue of Liberty Ferry, Inc. continues ferry operations from Battery Park, providing essential access to Liberty and Ellis Islands.
April 23, 1985
To celebrate the 40th anniversary, Mayor Ed Koch proclaims National Circle Line Day. The Hudson River is dyed green and red using eco-friendly dyes in honor of the company’s signature colors.
1988
The acquisition of World Yacht adds luxury dining cruises to the portfolio, broadening the brand’s offerings and attracting new audiences.
On April 23, 1985, the New York Fire Department celebrated Circle Line's colors by using eco-friendly dyes to transform the Hudson River into vibrant green and red hues.
MODERNIZATION AND NEW OFFERINGS
Adapting to Change
April 1992
Circle Line launches the Notable New Yorkers tour series, featuring audio narration from iconic locals like Mayor Ed Koch, author Tama Janowitz, and Tom and Nina Zagat.
1992
The two Circle Lines officially separate. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises continues to operate from Pier 83 with a renewed focus on classic sightseeing.
April 23, 1998
The BEAST is unleashed. This 70-foot powerboat is built for thrills, racing passengers toward the Statue of Liberty at high speeds with music and splash zones.
September 11, 2001
During the 9/11 attacks, Circle Line suspends sightseeing and shifts into emergency response mode, using six vessels to ferry 30,000 people from Manhattan to New Jersey.
REVITALIZATION AND REUNIFICATION
A New Chapter Begins
2004
Circle Line Harbor Cruises, LLC (also known as Circle Line Downtown) is established, playing a key role in the revitalization of Lower Manhattan.
2008
New York Water Taxi acquires Circle Line Downtown, helping expand service and coverage across the harbor.
January 15, 2009
Circle Line plays a vital role in the Miracle on the Hudson, helping rescue passengers from US Airways Flight 1549 after its emergency water landing.
June 20, 2009
New vessels Circle Line Brooklyn and Circle Line Queens launch. A citywide celebration marks the occasion with a carnival and block party.
December 2010
Circle Line celebrates 65 years with major fleet upgrades and a record-breaking one million passengers in a single year.
January 2017
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises acquires both New York Water Taxi and Circle Line Downtown, officially reuniting the fleet and strengthening its leadership in the NYC tourism market.
Circle Line Aids Flight 1549 (2009)
TODAY AND TOMORROW
Celebrating 80 Years of Cruising
2025:
As Circle Line celebrates its 80th anniversary, it remains a top choice for experiencing New York City from the water. With modern vessels, rich history, and unmatched skyline views, Circle Line continues to define what it means to cruise the city.
A MESSAGE FROM THE TEAM
"Circle Line has always been more than just a boat ride. We're storytellers, explorers, and proud New Yorkers committed to sharing this incredible city with the world."
– The Circle Line Team
Spotted Aboard Circle Line
Celebrities and pop culture moments that happened right on our decks:
Al Roker
Al Roker sets sail with Circle Line’s Captain of the Day to celebrate 80 years on the water.
Kim and Kourtney Kardashian
Kim and Kourtney Kardashian aboard a Circle Line boat in 2011, filming for their show 'Kim and Kourtney Take New York'.
Oscar de la Renta’s Spring / Summer 2025 Collection
Oscar de la Renta’s Spring / Summer 2025 Collection, elegantly showcased aboard a Circle Line boat.
